12 July 2012

X-Class Solar Flare Today Was Facing Earth. Major Geomagnetic Storm Possible

Posted by Dan Satterfield

Image from the NASA Solar Dynamics Observatory

Late word from NASA this evening is that the X 1.4 solar flare today IS headed in our direction, and may produce a moderate to severe geomagnetic storm on Saturday when it arrives. It may produce auroras Saturday down to a latitude of 35 degrees!

From NASA- click to see the animation.

There is also a significant risk for geostationary satellites and cross polar flights will likely be impacted as well due to HF radio blackouts and some minor radiation risk. The flare produced a notable CME that will take until Saturday to arrive.

Am sure there will be some more cool videos and animations of the flare coming…stay tuned!